The Phoenix scored three first-half goals in 17 minutes on Saturday at Sydney's Jubilee Stadium, with striker Roy Krishna bagging a brace, to help Wellington coach and former Sydney FC captain Mark Rudan enjoy a memorable win over his old club.

Defender Michael Zullo pulled a goal back in the 89th minute, but Sydney suffered successive home losses for the first time since April 2016.

It was Wellington's first win since the opening round and their first over Sydney in seven games, having picked up just one point in their previous eight away matches against all comers.

Sydney's defence was caught ball watching in a nightmarish first half as a series of passes and crosses cut them apart.